Package Overview
Overview
Mount Meru (4,566 m) is Tanzania's second-highest mountain and the fifth-highest in Africa. This 5-day itinerary is designed for climbers who want a more relaxed pace, better acclimatisation, and the highest possible chance of reaching Socialist Peak. The extra day allows for a dedicated rest and acclimatisation day at Saddle Hut before the summit attempt, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and making the entire experience more enjoyable.
The trek passes through Arusha National Park, where you'll walk among giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and colobus monkeys with an armed ranger. The final ascent involves a dramatic crater rim traverse with chain-assisted sections, culminating in panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Rift Valley.
This 5-day version is ideal for:
- First-time high-altitude trekkers
- Climbers preparing for Kilimanjaro
- Anyone who wants a more comfortable pace
- Photographers and nature lovers
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 days / 4 nights |
| Summit | Socialist Peak (4,566 m) |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Start/End | Momella Gate, Arusha National Park |
| Accommodation | Mountain huts (dormitory style) |
| Group Size | 2–12 climbers |
| Best Time | June–October, January–February |
Highlights
- Climb Tanzania's second-highest mountain at a relaxed pace
- Extra acclimatisation day at Saddle Hut for better summit success
- Walk among giraffes, buffalo, and colobus monkeys with an armed ranger
- Experience the dramatic horseshoe crater and inner ash cone
- Traverse the narrow crater rim with chain-assisted sections
- Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro from the summit
- Sleep in comfortable mountain huts (Miriakamba and Saddle)
Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha – Momella Gate – Miriakamba Hut
You'll be picked up from your hotel in Arusha at 7:00 AM and transferred to Momella Gate (about 1 hour). After registration and meeting your guide, cook, porters, and armed ranger, you begin the trek.
The first section crosses open grassland where giraffes, buffalo, and warthogs are often seen. You then enter dense rainforest, home to blue monkeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys. The trail climbs steadily to Miriakamba Hut, where you'll have a hot lunch and time to rest. Dinner and overnight at the hut.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut – Saddle Hut – Little Meru Acclimatisation
After breakfast, you continue through giant heather and moorland. The trail steepens as you approach Saddle Hut. You'll arrive by early afternoon, have lunch, and rest.
In the late afternoon, you'll take an optional acclimatisation hike to Little Meru (3,820 m). This 45-minute ascent helps your body adjust to the altitude and offers stunning views of the crater and Kilimanjaro. Return to Saddle Hut for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Acclimatisation Day at Saddle Hut
This is your dedicated acclimatisation day. You'll sleep in, enjoy a relaxed breakfast, and take a short optional hike to Rhino Point (3,800 m) or simply rest at the hut. The goal is to let your body adjust to the altitude before the summit push.
Your guide will monitor your health and offer advice on hydration and rest. You'll have an early dinner and prepare for the midnight wake-up. Overnight at Saddle Hut.
Day 5: Miriakamba Hut – Momella Gate – Arusha
After a relaxed breakfast, you descend through the rainforest to Momella Gate. The trail is gentle and scenic, and you may spot more wildlife on the way down. You'll arrive at the gate around midday, collect your certificate, and be transferred back to Arusha. Drop-off at your hotel or the airport.
Day 5: Miriakamba Hut – Momella Gate – Arusha
After a relaxed breakfast, you descend through the rainforest to Momella Gate. The trail is gentle and scenic, and you may spot more wildlife on the way down. You'll arrive at the gate around midday, collect your certificate, and be transferred back to Arusha. Drop-off at your hotel or the airport.
Included services in itinerary
- Park entry fees
- Professional safari guide
- 4×4 safari vehicle
- All meals
- Drinking water
Excluded
- International flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips and gratuities
Trip Information
PDF format with full itinerary
